5 Smart Ways to Use Your THR to Refresh Your Home Before Eid

Jakartaweekly.com — The Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR) bonus often becomes an opportunity for families to refresh their homes ahead of Eid al-Fitr. However, without proper planning, the additional income can easily be spent on seasonal needs and lead to financial pressure after the celebrations.

According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance, THR should be allocated carefully from the start to ensure balanced spending. A common guideline suggests allocating 10–15% for religious obligations, 10–20% for short-term debt, 40–50% for celebration expenses, and 10–20% for savings or post-holiday reserves.

This approach highlights the importance of not spending the entire bonus on short-term consumption. If families plan to refresh their homes before Eid, maintaining a balanced budget is essential.

IKEA Indonesia shares five simple tips to use THR wisely while improving home comfort and functionality.

1. Identify areas that struggle during busy gatherings
Eid celebrations often bring more guests and activities at home. This can reveal practical issues such as limited table space, cluttered living rooms, or lack of extra seating. Simple solutions like foldable tables, extra stools, or portable storage can help manage these situations.

2. Plan before buying
After identifying the needs, make a clear plan before shopping. Comparing furniture sizes, materials, and availability can help avoid impulse purchases and ensure THR is spent on items that bring long-term value.

3. Focus on function, not just appearance
While decorating for guests can be tempting, improvements that enhance comfort and efficiency—such as better lighting, rearranged furniture, or added storage—often provide longer-lasting benefits.

4. Set a clear budget
Decide how much of the THR will be used for home improvements while keeping room for other Eid obligations and savings. A clear budget helps avoid overspending.

5. Use promotions strategically
Promotional periods, such as IKEA’s Lebaran sale, can help families purchase planned items at more affordable prices without exceeding their budget.

By following these steps, households can prepare their homes for Eid celebrations while ensuring their THR is used wisely and sustainably. (***)